Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting Tariq Azeem on Wednesday said a broad-based media strategy is essential to combat propaganda against national interests and influence public opinion in the Western countries.
He was addressing a three-day consultative conference of Pakistani press officers posted abroad. The moot was organised by the External Publicity Wing of the Ministry of Information. Tariq Azeem said Pakistan was itself a victim to terrorism, and it has been playing an effective role in war on terrorism, which is widely acknowledged by the international community. He said: "We have done more than any other country to counter terrorism and also suffered the most so far in human and material terms."
Tariq Azeem said the only way to foil nefarious designs of anti-Pakistan elements is to project a true and soft image of the country which requires additional diplomatic efforts and integrated media approach.
"The goodwill created at different levels in form of positive public opinion can result in not only improving relations, but also enhancing trade and cultural ties among the countries," he said.
He underscored the need for shaping public opinion at the international level by highlighting Pakistan's effective role in curbing terrorism and promoting peace in the region.
The press officers should not only focus on media, but should also try to persuade intellectuals, policy-makers, and industrialists abroad in favour of Pakistan's policies, he added.
Tariq Azeem said that press officers working abroad must also strengthen their professional and linguistic skills to meet the emerging challenges in the world of media and communication.
He said as part of training process, a half-day training session has also been organised for press officers to provide state-of-the-art professional grooming in the field of media management.
Information Secretary Shahid Rafi said on the occasion that the consultative conference will go a long way to enhance interaction and develop better understanding among Pakistani press officers working in different countries.
He said Pakistan's foreign missions effectively highlighted the intensity of devastating October 8 earthquake at the international level and donors conference held in Islamabad caught great media attention.
Shahid Rafi said the government will fully facilitate the press officers to effectively play their role in highlighting the true image of the country in the comity of nations.